My mom has got left leg swelling and it's been 3 weeks now... Swelling is moved up towards knee now and skin color has changed to redish black.. We did scanning for which reports attached.. Pls check.. 1) is there anything dangerous.
2) dos and donts.
3) swelling is not reduced
Note- medications as suggested by physician are going on since a week now..
Answers (13)
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The ultrasound report is reassuring in the most important way:
1. No deep vein thrombosis (DVT) → this is the biggest danger ruled out. No clot in the deep veins means very low immediate risk of pulmonary embolism (clot going to lungs).
2. Few superficial varicosities → small, visible varicose veins — common, usually not dangerous by themselves.
3. Thickened and inflamed subcutaneous tissue → this explains the red-black skin color change, persistent swelling, and why it is moving upwards. This strongly suggests chronic venous insufficiency with stasis dermatitis (skin inflammation from poor vein return) + possible superficial thrombophlebitis (inflammation of surface veins) or cellulitis (skin/soft tissue infection) developing on top of chronic swelling.
Is there anything dangerous right now?
• Not immediately life-threatening (no DVT), but yes — potentially serious if not treated properly and quickly.
• The reddish-black discoloration + thickening + persistent swelling for 3 weeks + upward spread = high risk of progressing to infection (cellulitis) or venous ulcer if ignored.
• At this stage it is still reversible with correct care, but delay can make skin permanently dark/thick or lead to open sores
Next Steps
1. Urgent re-visit to doctor (within 1–2 days max)
• Preferably vascular surgeon or dermatologist with venous expertise (or your current physician if he is experienced in venous disease).
• Show this report + photo + mention:
• Swelling increasing towards knee
• Skin now reddish-black
• No reduction after 1 week of current medicines
• Ask for:
• Clinical examination for signs of infection (heat, tenderness, lymph node swelling)
• Repeat / Doppler venous ultrasound with focus on superficial veins (to check for superficial thrombophlebitis)
• Blood tests: CRP, ESR, CBC (to see infection/inflammation level)
• Possibly swab if any oozing or ulcer starts
2. Likely treatment changes (doctor will decide):
• Compression therapy — Class 2 or 3 medical compression stockings (not just crepe bandage) — most important for venous insufficiency
• Antibiotics (oral or IV) if infection/cellulitis is suspected
• Anti-inflammatory (e.g., short course NSAID or steroid cream if dermatitis severe)
• Elevation + limb care instructions
• Venous ulcer prevention creams (if skin breaking down)
Health Tips
Do’s
• Elevate the leg above heart level as much as possible (lie down with pillows under leg — aim 30–45 min, 3–4 times/day)
• Keep skin clean and moisturized — gentle soap + plain Vaseline / coconut oil / emollient cream after bath
• Wear loose cotton clothing — avoid tight bands around thigh/calf
• Walk short distances frequently (5–10 min every 1–2 hours) — helps venous return
• Drink 2–2.5 liters water daily (unless doctor restricts)
Dont’s
• Do NOT massage the leg or squeeze the swollen area — can push clot/infection deeper
• Do NOT apply heat (hot water bag) — worsens inflammation
• Do NOT stand/sit for long without moving (max 30–45 min at a time)
• Do NOT ignore increasing redness, warmth, fever, severe pain, blistering, or oozing — go to emergency same day
• Do NOT use random steroid creams or ayurvedic oils without doctor advice — can mask infection
It looks like your mother has developed ‘Superficial thrombophlebitis of her left leg’ and also has some varicose veins.
Do the following,
1. Complete the course of Antibiotics that she would have been given
2. Apply regular moisturiser cream on the affected leg daily
3. Once the infection has settled, she will need to be treated with ‘Compression bandages’. This is the most important thing to prevent flare ups of the leg which is a common issue.
All the best.
J G S R clinic
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She has varicose veins and inflammation of subcutaneous tissue.
She should avoid keeping leg hanging down for long, use elastic stocking while walking.
She can take tab ciprofloxacin 500mg one morning and one evening for 5days.
Tab voveran 50mg one every 8hours for 3 days, after meals.
Tab daflon 100mg 3 times daily for 10 days.
When she sleep, keep Lower limb slightly Elevated from body by keeping pillow under that Lower limb
Don't keep standing for more time
Consult physician also
You mom has varicose veins...which can also cause swelling...
She needs to avoid long standing...
And leg raised on bed...
You need proper treatment for it
Consult for better and further management
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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